Exploring the influence of women’s leadership and corporate governance on operational liquidity: The glass cliff effect

Abstract

This research investigates the glass cliff effect and the positions held by women in leadership roles, focusing on their impact on operational liquidity. The study delves into the relationship between corporate governance attributes and operational liquidity in 60 non-financial companies listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange during Covid-19. Utilizing Quine-McCluskey technique and fuzzy set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), it examines the combined effect of Women on the Board, Board Size, Ownership by Blockholders, Board Qualifications and Busy Directors on Operational Liquidity. The necessary condition analysis (NCA) emphasises that firms can operate without reliance on any particular variable taken in the study. The sufficiency analysis provided an expanded understanding of the three conditions leading to the same outcome both before and during the pandemic. This research highlights the significance of the glass cliff effect and emphasizes the pivotal role of women in effectively managing liquidity during times of crisis. Additionally, it provides valuable insights for policymakers regarding the impact of Covid-19 on the interplay between corporate governance characteristics and operational liquidity.